Mississippi is full of incredible gems that are just waiting to be discovered – and Columbus is one of them! The medium-sized city is brimming with small-town charm and offers no shortage of big-city attractions. With all this in mind, it’s easy to see why Columbus has been named The Magnolia State's best-kept secret.

The cat’s out of the bag! Columbus is a hidden gem that’s worth seeking out, at least according to Food and Travel Magazine.

At the end of 2020, the magazine released an article, deeming the city "Mississippi’s best kept secret."

Columbus’ tagline is “The City That Has It All”…and it truly is! There’s something for everyone.

The idyllic town of just under 25,000 is most known as the birthplace of America’s greatest playwright, Tennessee Williams.

Today, the writer’s former home serves as a welcome center and museum. It’s a great place to begin any visit to Columbus, as it’s manned by travel counselors, who are ready to help visitors make the most of their time in the city.

Historic architecture doesn’t end with the welcome center, though. Columbus boasts more than 675 historic properties!

Die-hard history buffs will want to visit during the Spring Pilgrimage. The much-anticipated annual event features tours of historic homes and gardens, some of which aren’t open to the public any other time during the year. Billed as one of the "South’s Top 10 Events," the 2-week event draws thousands of visitors from around the nation.

Opportunities for celebrating the city’s past aren’t limited to antiquated buildings, though. Catfish Alley is brimming with history – musical history, that is.

A stop on the Mississippi Blues Trail, Catfish Alley was once the epicenter of blues, jazz, and soul music in north Mississippi. Today, it plays host to a variety of events, such as Catfish in the Alley.

But don’t assume that Columbus is stuck in the past just because it cherishes its heritage. A lively hub of activity, downtown Columbus is brimming with colorful shops.

Columbus also boasts an impressive culinary scene.

Whether you’re craving a casual bite or a white tablecloth experience, you’ll find it in Columbus.

The recreational opportunities are nothing to scoff at, either. Not only is Columbus home to Lake Lowndes State Park but it’s also got an amazing riverwalk.

Designed for hikers and bikers, the Columbus Riverwalk spans 4.4 miles and follows the Tombigbee River.

Fun festivals are another hallmark of Columbus - and further testify to the fact that the city really does have it all!

For more information on "the city that has it all," check out the Visit Columbus website or Facebook page.

So, did you know about Columbus? Ever visited? If so, do you think it's deserving of being deemed Mississippi’s best kept secret.

This isn’t the state’s only award-winning city. Read about another here.